Man 'told MPs Evans had made advances'

A MAN who claims former Commons deputy speaker Nigel Evans sexually abused him in a darkened room at Westminster informed two MPs about the alleged incident, a jury has heard.

A MAN who claims former Commons deputy speaker Nigel Evans sexually abused him in a darkened room at Westminster informed two MPs about the alleged incident, a jury has heard.

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Kim Pilling

The witness has told Mr Evans's trial at Preston Crown Court the Ribble Valley MP groped him in a kitchen in February 2011. He is one of seven young men Mr Evans, 56, is alleged to have sexually assaulted between 2002 and last year.

The jury was read statements given by MPs Andrew Percy and Tom Blenkinsop.

Mr Percy, Tory MP for Brigg and Goole, had attended a drinks gathering hosted by Mr Evans at which the complainant was also present. At some point, he noticed the complainant had left the room. He said: "When he returned, he said to (his friend) and myself something along the lines of 'Nigel has tried to come on to me'. I cannot remember the exact details as to what was described but I can say that he described it as an unwanted advance.

"Nigel has then come back into the room. It was clear from the way (the alleged victim) was talking he was not happy."

Mr Blenkinsop, Labour MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said he was later told about the matter. He said: "He had disclosed he had been at a party with Nigel Evans. During this party, Mr Evans made advances to (the alleged victim) and he had not been happy about what had taken place."

Mr Blenkinsop added he did not know details of the alleged incident and the complainant had made no indication he wanted to take the matter further.

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